Launch Your Career as a Secretary with the Indian Health Service
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative expertise with a meaningful mission? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking organized and dedicated individuals to fill Secretary roles in Red Mesa, Arizona, and Bloomfield, New Mexico. By joining our team, you become a vital part of a nationwide network of healthcare providers committed to improving the wellness of American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
About the Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service, an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, is responsible for providing federal health services to over 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our culture is defined by compassion, innovation, and a strong sense of community. When you work with the IHS, you aren't just filling a desk—you are supporting an interdisciplinary team that solves complex problems and delivers essential care.
Job Responsibilities
The Secretary position is the backbone of our clinic operations. You will be responsible for a wide range of tasks designed to ensure facility efficiency, including:
- Front Office Management: Greeting visitors and managing telephone inquiries with professional courtesy.
- Documentation: Reviewing, preparing, and distributing official reports, correspondence, and directives.
- Coordination: Managing appointment calendars, coordinating travel authorizations, and organizing team meetings.
- Operations Support: Managing supply inventories, tracking office expenditures, and handling timekeeping records.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several federal requirements. Candidates must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent in the private or public sector.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Background Check | Must pass a federal background investigation |
| Immunization | Compliance with IHS vaccine policies is required |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $45,409 to $59,031 per year. Beyond the paycheck, you will benefit from the robust federal employment package, which includes comprehensive health insurance options, federal retirement programs, and structured annual leave based on your total federal service time.
How to Apply
The application process is conducted through USAJOBS. Before you begin, ensure your resume is updated to highlight your administrative experience. You will be required to take the USA Hire assessment as part of the evaluation process. Ensure all documents, including your SF-50 (if currently a federal employee) or BIA-4432 (if claiming Indian Preference), are attached correctly before the closing date of November 20, 2026.
Joining the Indian Health Service as a Secretary is more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. If you possess strong attention to detail, excellent interpersonal skills, and a desire to support a noble cause, we encourage you to apply today. Your expertise will help ensure that our healthcare teams have the administrative stability they need to change lives.
Why This Secretary Job Matters
Launch a meaningful career with the Indian Health Service and play a vital role in providing essential administrative support to healthcare teams serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
Secretary Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Secretary to join our professional interdisciplinary team. This position offers an opportunity to provide comprehensive administrative support, ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare facilities in Red Mesa, Arizona, and Bloomfield, New Mexico. You will be at the heart of our mission, coordinating office logistics, managing schedules, and facilitating communication to support the delivery of high-quality healthcare services.
Requirements for Secretary
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a federal background investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Compliance with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy
- Successful completion of the E-Verify employment check
- Must meet qualification requirements within 30 days of the closing date
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary
- Proven experience in office database management and spreadsheet creation
- Strong proficiency with graphic word processing software
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with diverse internal and external stakeholders
- Experience in travel coordination, timekeeping, and procurement processes
- Ability to manage complex calendars and meeting logistics
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on federal service years
- ✓Potential for credit toward annual leave based on non-federal experience
- ✓Access to federal health and insurance programs
- ✓Opportunity to participate in a collaborative, mission-driven interdisciplinary environment
💡 How to Apply Secretary Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Log into your USAJOBS account and click the 'Apply Online' button.
- Complete the mandatory application questionnaires.
- Submit your resume and any required supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, SF-50, veterans preference documents).
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the designated testing window.
- Ensure all materials are submitted before 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly identifies duties, responsibilities, and hours worked per week for every position held.
- Use the USAJOBS Help Center to ensure your resume format meets federal standards.
- Prioritize your background investigation forms; timely completion is critical to avoiding delays.
- If claiming Indian or Veterans Preference, ensure all supporting forms (BIA-4432, DD214) are attached accurately.
- Set aside about two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment; do not wait until the last minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Secretary at the IHS?
You will serve as a key administrative liaison, managing office workflows, coordinating travel, maintaining timekeeping records, and supporting daily operations to ensure healthcare staff can focus on patient care.
Do I need to live in a specific location for this job?
This position is located in either Red Mesa, AZ, or Bloomfield, NM. You should be prepared to work on-site at these specific facilities.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all candidates must successfully complete a federal background investigation and verify their identity, which includes meeting REAL ID requirements.
What is the work environment like?
*A: The IHS environment is fast-paced, collaborative, and highly community-focused. You will work alongside professionals dedicated to healthcare excellence.*
Are there opportunities for promotion?
*A: This specific position currently has no formal promotion potential.*